Drug Cards Daily

Episode #24: erenumab (Aimovig) | Podcast Show Notes
erenumab (e REN ue mab)

Below will be links for the full Podcast and the Drug Card for erenumab along with a brief summary of various points on erenumab. 

QUESTIONS:  

  1. T or F: Aimovig is available in both a 70 & 140 mg/mL autoinjector but generic is currently available only as the 70 mg/mL autoinjector.
  2. How often is Aimovig dosed?
  3. Select all that apply. 
    • A). Aimovig is a CGRP agonist
    • B). Erenumab is a CGRP inhibitor
    • C). Erenumab is a monoclonal antibody
    • D). Aimovig is a monoclonal antibody
    • E). All of the above
  4. Why is blocking the CGRP protein beneficial in patients that experience frequent migraines?

SUMMARY:  

Aimovig is currently the brand-only drug for erenumab. Erenumab is used in the prevention of migraines in adults. The drug comes as a 70 mg/mL or 140 mg/mL subcutaneous autoinjector that is used for one dose every month. Aimovig is considered various things being called a calcitonin gene-related (CGRP) receptor antagonist or CGRP inhibitor, a monoclonal antibody, and an antimigraine agent. Erenuman blocks the CGRP receptor which decreases the CGRP protein which is known as the cause for intense inflammation in the meninges and nerve endings in the brain. Although there are not any direct drug interactions of note, patients should be aware of injection site reactions such as pain, redness, and swelling. The main side effects of note are constipation and increased blood pressure. Increasing blood pressure is particularly of note due to disease related concerns in patients with cardiovascular disease. When monitoring patients it is appropriate to check blood pressure regularly along with the number of migraine days they experience. There are particular storage requirements for Aimovig and once opened from original container it can be stored in room temperature but should be discarded after 7 days.

ANSWERS:  

  1. False. Although Aimovig does come in two strengths, there is currently no generic available in any strength.
  2. Once monthly. 
  3. B, C, and D are correct. “A” is incorrect because Aimovig is a CGRP “antagonist” not agonist. 
  4. The CGRP protein causes intense inflammation in the meninges and nerve endings of the brain. Reducing the CGRP effects may decrease the number of migraines experienced in patients.
Did you get any wrong? Make sure to listen to this week’s episode and download the free Drug Card for erenumab.

PDF of Drug Card: erenumab